But not sure which one to choose with so many models and prices on offer?

Well, let me say at the outset that we do not recommend one brand versus another, what we can do is to give you a little list of items to check out in order to make your choice that much easier.

1. First things first, do you know what you want it for? What are you planning to use it for? Once you have handed over the hard earned dosh you don’t want to to be thinking ‘Oops’, can’t do this, can’t do that, too slow, insufficient storage etc.

So is it going to be used as a replacement for your PC or is it just for watching TV shows whilst travelling or in bed? Does it need to be able to be hooked up to your TV by HDMI? and don’t forget about the storage capacity.

2. An expensive tablet does not equate to a quality tablet and a cheap tablet does not mean it is a throw away with a screen likely to give you glaucoma. There are reasons for the price, not necessarily directly associated with capability, for example the e-book reader Kindle Fire HD has an affordable price but Amazon [the maker] takes a loss up front because of its other business interests.

In contrast Apple’s iPad has no HDMI or storage increase capability yet charges a high premium because of its performance, great apps support, brilliant interface and its ecosystem, referring here to matching with iPhone etc.

3. You have most likely got used to hearing of Google with its Android operating system, Microsoft with its new Windows systems [RT and Pro], and Apple of course. There are many manufacturer producing tablet running one or another of the above systems, and indeed quite a few more you may not have heard about.

As for the latter make sure that problems are able to be remedied by your sales outlet and better still avoid manufacturers that may be known for needing frequent patches to keep their systems running up-to-date.

4. Then there is the question of size. should it be a 7”, a 10”, an 8”, or some newer size. The smaller ones are often underpowered compared with the bigger sized tablets. Though they may also be cheaper. And easier to put in your pocket or purse.

Check out how they feel when in your hand, the 7” may be better if you are using it for e-reading in bed, or if you have smaller hands. The 8-10” offer larger screens, better for movie watching, and often has faster processors making your viewing comfortable.

If you think a larger one may be for you, e.g. the new Windows ‘Surface’ tablets or even the 13” Toshiba tablet be prepared to shell out a good deal more.

5. You may have a specific operating system in mind, and here we are talking about Apple’s iOS, Google’s Android or Microsoft’s Windows 8, or just one that will deliver what you want in terms of design, apps, weight, and how it will fit with your desired usage plan. The important thing is: What do you want to use it for? then when that is decided go see a seller of tablets to get a feel of the product. You are in a much better position now to make an informed purchasing decision.

6. If you are still wondering, why not let Kapiti SeniorNet help you. Go to one of their iPad workshops or a Q&A session and let them help you to make your life a little easier.